The Anambra State Gaming Bill 2024, aimed at regulating gaming activities such as promotional lotteries, lottos, casinos, online sports betting, and raffles, has successfully passed its second reading in the Anambra State House of Assembly. Sponsored by the Majority Leader, Sir Ikenna Ofodeme, who represents Ekwusigo Constituency, the bill seeks to establish a formal framework to govern and oversee gaming and betting operations within the state.
In his presentation, Hon. Ofodeme highlighted the bill’s potential to increase the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) while addressing social issues associated with unregulated gaming. He noted that many gaming activities currently operate without proper oversight, resulting in disputes and, in some cases, violent altercations among participants.
The bill proposes that every gaming center in Anambra State be required to register with the relevant authorities and renew their licenses annually to ensure compliance with state regulations.
The bill received strong support from members, including Hon. Anayo Okpaleke of Aguata Constituency One, Barrister Obi Nweke of Anambra East, and Engineer Emma Nwafor of Orumba South. Speaker Somtochukwu Udeze presided over the session and led the second reading of the bill, which was passed with unanimous support through a voice vote.
